AI & Other People's Feelings
Words have power. Kind words can make someone's whole day better. Unkind words can sting, even when you cannot see the person's face. Today we are thinking about how we use AI and the words it helps us write — and why kindness always matters.
Words on a Screen Are Still Real Words
Sometimes online it feels like words are not quite real — like they float away and nobody gets hurt. But that is not true. If someone reads a mean message about themselves, they feel sad, embarrassed, or scared, just as much as if someone said it to their face. In fact, sometimes it hurts more online, because the words stay there and other people might see them. AI is very good at writing — it can write a lot of words, fast. That means if someone used AI to write something mean, it could be meaner and longer than something they would say on their own. That is a really important reason to use AI kindly.
Do not use AI to write mean messages, make fun of someone, spread rumors, or say things you would not say to a person's face. Words can hurt, online or off.
Here is a story. Two friends, Sam and Riley, had an argument at recess. Sam was still upset after school and thought about asking AI to help write something mean about Riley to send to their classmates. Sam stopped and thought: 'Would I say this to Riley's face? Would I be okay if a teacher read this?' The answers were no and no. Sam decided to write in a journal instead, and the next day talked it out with Riley. They made up. Sam used AI's power wisely — by NOT using it for something hurtful.
Match each action to whether it is kind or unkind.
Terms
Definitions
Drag terms onto their definitions, or click a term then click a definition to match.
Here are two questions to ask before you use AI to write anything about another person. Question 1: Would I be okay if this person read it? Question 2: Would I be okay if a teacher or parent read it? If the answer to either question is no, do not send it. Step away, take a breath, and talk to a grown-up if you are upset. There is always a kinder way through a hard moment.
Before sending anything written with AI about another person, ask: Would I be okay if they read this? Would I be okay if an adult read this? Both answers should be yes.
Sam wants to use AI to write a mean message about Riley. What is the kindest, smartest choice?
Why might using AI to write something mean be even worse than saying it yourself?
Kindness Message Workshop
- Think of one person who did something nice for you recently — a friend, family member, or teacher.
- Brainstorm three kind things you could say to them.
- Pick your favorite idea and write it out in your own words as a short note or message.
- You can use AI to check your spelling if you like — but write the kind words yourself.
- Share the note with the person. Notice how they react!
- Think about this: How did it feel to share something kind?